Democrats May Try To Block Walker’s Plan To Borrow $1.3B For DOT

Gov. Scott Walker’s plan to have the state borrow $1.3 billion to pay for transportation projects over the next two years isn’t sitting well with some state lawmakers.

Assembly Democratic Leader Peter Barca said it may be a proposal that his party can convince majority Republicans to block.

“The $1.3 billion is excessive, and everybody knows that. The governor promised not to kick the can down the road, but he’s kicking a bigger can down a longer (pothole-filled) road. So we’re hoping they will in fact recognize it’s not healthy,” said Barca.

Walker announced the borrowing idea after the state Transportation Department ran into political opposition with its plan to raise the state gas tax and other fees for various projects. Walker said he would offset the increased road borrowing with delays in some building construction. Democrats, however, say they’re looking for specifics.